In terms of in-season upgrades, Kasten told Shaikin he likes the rotation and lineup, while GM Ned Colletti has been looking at ways to improve the bullpen. The team is reportedly close to acquiring Carlos Marmol from the Cubs, and Shaikin says they're also looking at "higher-quality options."

Kasten noted that the Dodgers do not have a lot of high-end prospects close to the Majors, and they would certainly not trade their best prospects for a rental. The team could be quieter than expected this summer and in the offseason, as Kasten told Shaikin, "I also think the direction we pursued last year — established veterans, looking at big free agents — we are going to move away from that. I know people think we are in this deal, in that deal, and in any deal. That is not what the next phase of this franchise requires."